3 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch Out for in Fiesta Bowl Between Clemson and Ohio State

To say that we are itching for Saturday night's Fiesta Bowl showdown No.2 Clemson and No.3 Ohio State would be a comprehensive understatement.

The narrative of the Buckeyes looking to avenge their 31-0 defeat at the hands of the Tigers back in the 2016 CFB Playoff semifinals is nothing short of mouthwatering.

However, the sheer number of NFL draft prospects that will take to the gridiron might be more captivating. Let's get even more amped for the semifinal clash by highlighting some soon-to-be drafted players that will feature in this cant-miss game.

3. Tee Higgins, Clemson WR

Tee Higgins hauling in a touchdown against Virginia in the ACC Championship Game. / Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

An underlying matchup heading into Clemson-Ohio State is Higgins lining up out wide against stud CB Jeffrey Okudah, another likely first-round pick. Higgins, however, projects to be selected first in 2020. His 6-foot-4, 215-pound frame will translate swimmingly to the NFL. Combine that with his incredible ball skills (20.8 yards per catch and 12 TD's in 2019) and Higgins is a first-round lock. He's definitely a player to have your eye on during the first round of the CFP.

2. Isaiah Simmons, Clemson LB

Clemson star linebacker Isaiah Simmons in action against Texas A&M. / Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 225 pounds, it's almost as if Simmons was built in an NFL linebacker lab. He rushes the quarterback with incredible efficiency, and is equally comfortable (and dominant) dropping back in coverage. In 2019, Simmons compiled 93 tackles (14.5 for loss), seven sacks, two interceptions, and six defended passes. He will be a first round pick come April. Book it.

1. Chase Young, Ohio State DE

Chase Young celebrating a play in the Big Ten Championship Game against Wisconsin. / Joe Robbins/Getty Images

When you can impose your will against offensive lines with power, speed, or just unstoppable counter moves, it comes as no surprise that Young is being tabbed the best defensive end/linebacker prospect since Von Miller. Young was unstoppable in 2019, compiling a nation-leading 16.5 sacks, seven forced fumbles, and 21 tackles for loss in just 11 games. There's no reason to believe that the Buckeyes' world-beater won't be a star at the next level, and one of the first to hear his name called on Draft Day.